SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 2698

BYRepresentatives Jones, Wolfe, Walker, Prentice, Rector and Cole

Revising provisions for the reopening of industrial insurance claims.

House Committe on Commerce & Labor

Senate Committee on Economic Development & Labor

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 15, 1990

Senate Staff:Dave Cheal (786-7576)

AS OF FEBRUARY 13, 1990

BACKGROUND:

Within seven years of the first order closing an industrial insurance claim, an injured worker may apply to reopen the claim because of aggravation of his or her disability.  The department must act upon the application within 90 days, unless the time period is extended for good cause.  In some cases, an order reopening the claim may not be entered for several months and the worker's benefits may be delayed.

SUMMARY:

If an injured worker applies for reopening of his or her industrial insurance claim and temporary disability payments are payable, benefit payments must begin within 14 days of the receipt of the application.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested January 27, 1990